NuggetvsPilgrim

Nugget and Pilgrim are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 mL

United States

Pilgrim

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.2–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Nugget

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Pilgrim

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Nugget

HerbalGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut

Only in Pilgrim

FruitySpicyLemonGrapefruitPearBerry

Property

PropertyNuggetPilgrim
Alpha acid9.5–16%9–13%
Beta acid3–5.8%4.2–5.5%
Co-humulone22–30%36–38%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL1–1.8 mL
Myrcene48–59%30–35%
Humulene12–22%21–25%
Caryophyllene7–10%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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